By Staff Writer
“My two-year posting as an ambassador was entirely occupied by State of Emergency.”
Japan’s Ambassador to Samoa, H.E. Mr. Genichi Terasaw, made the remarks at his farewell reception last week at the Taumeasina Island Resort on Tuesday.
The Head of State, His Highness Tuimaleali’ifano Va’aleto’a Sualauvi II and Masiofo Fa’amausili head the list of dignitaries at the formal occasion.
The Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa was also present as well as former Prime Minister and opposition leader Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi.
Cabinet Ministers and members of the diplomatic corps attended as well as several other prominent members of the private and public sectors.
“Immediately after my arrival in November 2019, measles epidemic broke out and SOE was declared,” Ambassador Terasaw continued.
“Just after the measles had subsided, a COVID- 19 pandemic occurred and SOE was declared again.
“I have never enjoyed a normal Samoan life without SOE.”
On a more formal note the ambassador reflected on the assistance Samoa is support of the national response to the health prevention and protection effort.
“Japan worked with other development partners to support COVID-19 vaccines and medical equipment, hoping that this country could return to normal as soon as possible.
“The fact that no community-acquired infections have ever occurred in Samoa thanks to the united efforts of the Samoan government, health workers and the public.
“ I would like to express my deepest respect for the efforts of everyone in Samoa.”
The ambassador spoke about the 9th Pacific Island Leaders Meeting (PALM 9) during his posting in Samoa that included Australia and New Zealand.
He referred to the meeting discussions of the economic and social difficulties by the global challenges of climate change, natural disasters and pandemics.
“As one of the outcomes of the meeting, Japan launched the Pacific Bond (Kizuna) Policy to further strengthen cooperation with island countries to overcome those challenges.”
Ambassador Terasaw spoke of the many friends he made in Samoa and of some of the joyous moments taking part in community services.
“I especially enjoyed picking up plastic wastes on the beach and running a fund raising marathon event for charity with the Samoan citizens. It was also my pleasure to be able to support the activities of SVSG and social welfare organizations.”
The new Japanese to take over from the departing ambassador is due to arrive in Samoa this month.
“I think the new ambassador will also strive to further promote the cooperation between Japan and Samoa under the Pacific Bond policy.
“Please support my successor as well.”